Madonna At 60

Preview The New Audrey Hepburn Anniversary Exhibition

NO MORE PLAIN SAILING

PRADA has ended its affiliation with luxury the luxury America's Cup yacht race, saying it will not compete in the next "edition", which is due to be held in Valencia in 2009. "A cycle has come to an end," declared Prada chief executive Patrizio Bertelli. Although the cost of competing for the cup has significantly increased in recent years - Prada has invested around £40 million in it over the past decade - Bertelli has denied that the decision to withdraw was based on financial concerns. Louis Vuitton ended its involvement with the event last month amid concerns that it was becoming too commercial and less exclusive. "It has been an unforgettable experience, both from a sports and human perspective," Bertelli told WWD. "I hope that another Italian team will be able to compete in the next edition and to keep Italy at the top of the game." Since 2004 Prada has sponsored the Luna Rossa, the boat owned by Telecom Italia, and the house still owns the lisence to produce Luna Rossa-branded sailing clothes and accessories. (August 6 2007, AM) Leisa Barnett